Zinc – Uses, Side Effects, Warnings, and More

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Overview

Zinc is a necessary trace element that can be discovered in foods such as red meat, chicken, and fish. It is required in trace levels for human health, development, and the development of a sense of taste.

Zinc can be found in many different parts of the body. Due to the fact that zinc cannot be stored in the body, it must be supplied from food. It is essential for the functioning of the immune system, the coagulation of blood, the thyroid, and many other body systems. A healthy vision depends heavily on it, and some evidence suggests that it may also inhibit the growth of viruses.

Zinc is frequently prescribed to patients suffering from zinc deficiency, diarrhoea, and Wilson disease. Zinc is utilised for the treatment of a variety of conditions, including but not limited to acne, diabetes, anorexia, and burns. There is some evidence from scientific research to suggest that it may be beneficial in the treatment of certain of these illnesses. However, for the majority of applications, there is insufficient solid scientific evidence to support its usage. In the case of COVID-19, there is also a lack of strong data to justify the use of zinc.

Uses & Effectiveness

Beneficial for those who have a zinc shortage. Zinc can be given intravenously (IV) or taken orally as a supplement to assist restore zinc levels in persons who have zinc deficiencies. On the other hand, using zinc pills on a consistent basis is not advised. Only a trained medical professional should administer IV medications.

Probably Effective in Treating Diarrhea Children who are malnourished and have diarrhoea have both a shorter duration and less severe symptoms when they take zinc orally. The most typical dose of zinc is 20 milligrammes taken once daily. However, it appears that doses between 5 and 10 mg are as effective and cause significantly less vomiting.

A genetic condition that leads to the accumulation of copper in a variety of organs (Wilson disease). Zinc, when taken orally, is able to alleviate the symptoms of this illness. Zinc reduces the amount of copper that is absorbed by the body while simultaneously increasing the amount of copper that is expelled.

Acne treatment that might be successful. It appears that orally ingesting zinc can help clear up acne. Zinc, on the other hand, has not been studied as thoroughly as other treatments for acne, such as tetracycline or minocycline. It does not appear that applying zinc ointment to the skin on its own will be beneficial.

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Zinc deficiency can cause this condition (acrodermatitis enteropathica). It appears that orally ingesting zinc can help relieve symptoms associated with this illness.

a degenerative eye condition that is most common in people over the age of 60 (age-related macular degeneration or AMD). It is possible that ingesting zinc, particularly in combination with antioxidant vitamins, can help reduce the progression of age-related vision loss and prevent it from becoming advanced in people who are at high risk.

The disease is known as attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD). When combined with medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), zinc taken orally by youngsters may help alleviate certain symptoms of the disorder.

Development of a child Taking zinc in pill form during pregnancy has been shown to aid in the development of the foetus and young child in the first year of life.

The typical cold. Adults who take zinc lozenges that contain zinc gluconate or zinc acetate may see a reduction in the duration of their cold symptoms. However, it is unclear whether zinc aids in the prevention of colds.

Depression. It appears that mental health can be improved by combining antidepressant medication with oral zinc supplementation. People who do not react to treatment with antidepressants alone may also benefit from this type of therapy.

Diabetes. People who have diabetes and take zinc orally can notice a slight improvement in their ability to control their blood sugar levels.

Rash from the diaper. It appears that administering zinc gluconate orally to newborns can aid in the healing of diaper rash. It also appears that applying zinc oxide paste is beneficial. However, it does not appear to be as effective as administering an eosin solution of 2%.

A very harmless kind of gum disease (gingivitis). It has been found that using toothpaste that includes zinc, with or without an additional antibacterial component, can assist in the prevention of gingivitis.

Having bad breath Bad breath can be alleviated by rinsing the mouth with a solution that contains zinc, chewing gum, or sucking on candies.

Herpes simplex (herpes labialis). It has been found that applying zinc sulphate or zinc oxide to the skin, either on its own or in combination with other components, can shorten the duration of cold sores and lessen their severity.

a diminished capacity for tasting (hypogeusia). Zinc supplementation through oral consumption helps the majority of patients with this illness regain their ability to taste meals.

Infection of the skin brought induced by the parasites of the genus Leishmania (Leishmania lesions). People who have this illness can speed up the healing process of their lesions by either orally ingesting zinc sulphate or injecting a solution of zinc sulphate into their sores. On the other hand, it does not appear to be as effective as more traditional treatments. Injections should never be performed by anyone other than a trained medical professional.

Leprosy. Zinc supplements taken orally in conjunction with anti-leprosy medication appear to be beneficial in the treatment of leprosy.

Ulcers of the stomach Oral use of zinc acexamate appears to be beneficial for the treatment and prevention of stomach ulcers.

Pneumonia. Zinc taken orally has the potential to help protect some youngsters from developing pneumonia. On the other hand, it does not appear to be beneficial for children who already have pneumonia.

Bed sores (pressure ulcers). It indicates that applying zinc paste to the skin can assist in the healing of bed sores. Consuming zinc in combination with vitamin C and arginine through the digestive system can also be beneficial.

Sickle cell illness. In patients who are zinc deficient, taking zinc supplements orally appears to help alleviate some of the symptoms of sickle cell disease.

Warts. It would appear that the use of a zinc ointment is just as beneficial as the more traditional methods for healing warts. Taking zinc sulphate in pill form may also be of some assistance.

It’s possible that this won’t work for patchy hair loss (alopecia areata). Consuming zinc through the digestive system does not appear to prevent hair loss.

Coronavirus illness 2019 (COVID-19) (COVID-19). Zinc supplementation by oral consumption does not appear to hasten recovery from COVID-19 in individuals who have not been hospitalised to the hospital. Zinc does not, in addition, boost the reaction to a medication known as hydroxychloroquine.

disease known as cystic fibrosis. In children or teenagers who have cystic fibrosis, improving lung function by oral zinc supplementation does not work.

HIV/AIDS. Zinc supplementation through oral consumption does not boost immune function or lower the mortality risk in HIV patients.

Complications during pregnancy in people infected with HIV/AIDS. It does not appear that taking zinc supplements orally during pregnancy will lower the chance of HIV being passed on to the infant or avoid any other issues.

Persons living with HIV/AIDS are more likely to have involuntary weight loss. Zinc supplementation through oral consumption does not appear to prevent diarrhoea or death in persons who have this illness.

Infant development. It does not appear that orally administering zinc to newborns or children who are at risk for having low levels of zinc will benefit their development. Nevertheless, research suggests that oral zinc supplementation during pregnancy may lead to improved growth in the infant throughout the first year of life.

Inflammation in the digestive tract that lasts for an extended period of time (inflammatory bowel disease or IBD). It does not appear that ingesting zinc will assist treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Flu (influenza) (influenza). It does not appear that orally ingesting zinc will increase one’s immune function against the flu.

Infection of the ear (otitis media). Oral zinc supplementation does not appear to protect youngsters from developing ear infections.

A condition that can occur during pregnancy and is characterised by elevated blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine (pre-eclampsia). It does not appear that taking zinc will lower the chance of developing high blood pressure during pregnant.

Prostate cancer. Consuming zinc through the digestive system does not appear to lower the chance of developing prostate cancer.

skin that is flaky and itchy (psoriasis). It does not appear that orally ingesting zinc will aid in the treatment of psoriasis.

Arthritis rheumatoid of the knee (RA). Zinc used orally does not appear to be beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Sexual issues can prohibit a person from feeling satisfied when engaging in sexual activity. Zinc supplementation through oral consumption did not improve sexual function in males with sexual dysfunction caused by kidney disease.

Tones audible in the ears (tinnitus). It does not appear that orally ingesting zinc will be beneficial in the treatment of ringing in the ears.

It is highly unlikely to be effective against malaria. Zinc taken orally is ineffective as a preventative measure or a treatment for malaria in malnourished children living in impoverished nations.

There is an interest in utilising zinc for a variety of additional applications; however, there is insufficient trustworthy evidence to determine whether or not this could be beneficial.

Side Effects

Zinc is thought to be safe for human consumption when consumed in doses that do not exceed 40 milligrammes on a daily basis. It is possible that it is safe even when taken in higher amounts, particularly when it is utilised for a relatively brief length of time. However, taking amounts that are higher than 40 mg per day has the potential to reduce the amount of copper that the body absorbs. Zinc can be toxic at high levels, and taking excessive amounts can lead to gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, and a host of other unpleasant side effects. Zinc can be lethal in single doses ranging from 10 to 30 grammes.

Zinc is not expected to cause any adverse effects when it is applied to the skin. Using zinc on broken skin may produce burning, stinging, itching, and tingling.

Zinc could be harmful to your health if you breathe it in through your nose if you inhale it. It’s possible that it’ll ruin your sense of smell for good. Steer clear of zinc-containing nasal sprays at all costs.

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Special Precautions and Warnings

Zinc is thought to be safe for human consumption when consumed in doses that do not exceed 40 milligrammes on a daily basis. It is possible that it is safe even when taken in higher amounts, particularly when it is utilised for a relatively brief length of time. However, taking amounts that are higher than 40 mg per day has the potential to reduce the amount of copper that the body absorbs. Zinc can be toxic at high levels, and taking excessive amounts can lead to gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, and a host of other unpleasant side effects. Zinc can be lethal in single doses ranging from 10 to 30 grammes.

Zinc is not expected to cause any adverse effects when it is applied to the skin. Using zinc on broken skin may produce burning, stinging, itching, and tingling.

Zinc could be harmful to your health if you breathe it in through your nose if you inhale it. It’s possible that it’ll ruin your sense of smell for good. Steer clear of zinc-containing nasal sprays at all costs. Zinc is believed to be safe for consumption during pregnancy when taken in the levels that are suggested. On the other hand, it is probably not safe to use in large quantities. Those who are over the age of 18 should not take more than 40 mg of zinc per day, and pregnant women in the age range of 14 to 18 should not take more than 34 mg of zinc per day.

Breast-feeding: Zinc is likely safe when used in the prescribed levels while breast-feeding. However, taking large amounts of zinc could put your health in danger. Adults over the age of 18 should not take more than 40 mg of zinc per day, while adolescents between the ages of 14 and 18 should not take more than 34 mg of zinc per day if they are nursing.

When administered orally in the manner prescribed and in the proportions advised, zinc is likely to be safe for children. Doses of zinc that are taken on a daily basis should not exceed 4 milligrammes for infants aged 0 to 6 months, 5 milligrammes for infants aged 7 to 12 months, 7 milligrammes for children aged 1 to 3 years, 12 milligrammes for children aged 4 to 8 years, 23 milligrammes for children aged 9 to 13 years, and 34 milligrammes for adolescents aged 14 to 18 years. When it comes to newborns, applying topical zinc to skin that has been broken could be harmful. The zinc has the potential to create severe adverse effects if it is absorbed via the skin and into the bloodstream.

Alcohol use disorder: Consuming large amounts of alcohol over a prolonged period of time can decrease the body’s ability to absorb zinc.

Weight reduction surgery, often known as bariatric surgery, decreases zinc absorption and may raise the risk of zinc insufficiency. Bariatric surgery is performed to help patients lose weight. There is a possibility that zinc levels need to be monitored.

Kidney disease: a dietary zinc intake that is inadequate may be associated with an increased risk of developing this condition. In addition, patients undergoing hemodialysis for the treatment of kidney illness are at increased risk for zinc deficiency and may be required to take zinc supplements.

Vegetarianism: Studies have shown that vegetarian diets tend to result in reduced levels of zinc absorption. However, over time, the body is able to adjust. It improves its ability to absorb zinc and reduces the amount of zinc that it loses.

Interactions

Interaction that is Not Overbearing

Take precautions when using these two together.

Quinolone antibiotics are the type of antibiotics that interact with zinc.

It’s possible that zinc will lower the number of antibiotics that the body absorbs from the intestines. It is possible that taking zinc in conjunction with quinolone antibiotics will lessen the effectiveness of these medications. Antibiotics should be taken at least two hours before or four to six hours after zinc supplements for this interaction to be avoided.

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There is an interaction between antibiotics (tetracycline antibiotics) and zinc.

Zinc has the ability to lessen the quantity of tetracycline that is absorbed by the body. It is possible that the effects of tetracyclines will be lessened if zinc is taken at the same time. Tetracyclines should be used either two hours before or four to six hours after zinc supplements if you want to avoid this interaction.

There is an interaction between cisplatin (Platinol-AQ) and zinc.

Cisplatin is a drug that is used in the treatment of cancer. It’s possible that taking zinc at the same time as cisplatin will render the treatment useless. However, it is unclear if this should be a major issue.

Penicillamine, also known as Cubimine or Depen, has been shown to interact with zinc.

The amount of penicillamine that is absorbed by the body could be reduced by zinc. It is possible that taking zinc in conjunction with penicillamine will lessen the effects of the latter. Zinc and penicillamine should be taken at intervals of at least two hours.

There is an interaction between cephalexin (Keflex) and zinc.

The amount of cephalexin that is absorbed by the body can be decreased by zinc. It is possible that the effectiveness of cephalexin in fighting infections would suffer as a result of this. Zinc should be consumed three hours after cephalexin in order to avoid this interaction.

There is an interaction between ritonavir (Norvir) and zinc.

A medicine called ritonavir is used to treat HIV infection. The amount of ritonavir that is absorbed by the body can be decreased by zinc. However, it is unclear whether this is a major cause for concern.

HIV/AIDS medications, known as Integrase inhibitors, have been shown to interact with zinc.

Taking zinc in conjunction with integrase inhibitors may result in a lower concentration of integrase inhibitors in the blood. It’s possible that this will lessen the effectiveness of these treatments. If you are currently on integrase inhibitors and would like to begin taking zinc, you should discuss this with your primary care physician.

A Slightly Interacting Party

Take caution when using these two together.

Amiloride (Midamor) is known to have an effect on zinc.

Amiloride has the potential to boost the level of zinc found in the body. There is a possibility that taking zinc supplements with amiloride will raise zinc levels. However, the majority of people probably won’t be that concerned about this at all.

Atazanavir (also known as Reyataz) has a reaction with zinc.

The HIV infection can be treated with a medication called atazanavir. The amount of atazanavir that is absorbed by the body is reduced when zinc is present. However, the amount of atazanavir absorbed by the body is still sufficient for it to be effective in treating HIV. Therefore, it seems that this interaction is not a major cause for concern.

Dosing

Foods like red meat, chicken, and fish all contain zinc, a vital vitamin that may be found in these foods. The term “recommended dietary allowance” refers to the amount of food and drink that should be taken on a daily basis (RDA). The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for girls aged 18 years is 9 mg, whereas the RDA for females aged 19 years and older is 8 mg. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for males aged 18 and older is 11 mg.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for women who are pregnant is 11 mg for those 19 years and older and 13 mg for those 18 years and older. During breastfeeding, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is 17 mg for women who are 18 years old, and it is 12 mg for women who are 19 years old or older. When calculating the RDA for children, age is a factor.

Zinc can also be found in dietary supplements, lotions, gels, ointments, mouth rinses, and a wide variety of other types of goods. Talk to a medical professional about your symptoms to find out what kind of treatment and dosage would work best for your particular problem.